Actually, you need to look at both the Lebel and the Mauser 71 and you will find features similar to the M-N. Remember, the Russian/Belgian engineering combination was fully cognizant of the contemporary features of other actions.

Front locking, detachable bolt head. Single-stack magazine with a rim unlocking device that prevents rim-over-rim rams. It is a 100% reliable action. Clubby, with a poor trigger design that requires much attention, but a very reliable and VERY accurate rifle system. See the Finn M85 updates in Palokangas' amazing tome on Finnish arms.

My personal experience with the M-N was with various Russian and Finnish remodles, in the field on varmints and a bear, under harsh weather conditions. This is an action that deserves far better than it gets, normally...we have some fellows here that are giving it its due!!!

As for the borrowing of other designs to make a good'un, another project is to open up an AK; see the clear "thieving" of Remington Model 8 and Garand designs. Kalashnikov "created" nothing. His genius was in combining the features of others into mechanical perfection.